Do you ever wonder how traffic ticket prices are set? It depends on where you are charged. If you are stopped on a state road or interstate, the price is determined by the state legislature. If you are stopped in a city, city leaders or the police department may determine the traffic ticket prices. Traffic ticket prices also vary from state to state. For example, if you are caught for speeding in Alabama, your fine could be up to $100. Cross the border and get caught on a state road in Tennessee and the traffic ticket prices for a first time offense is only up to $50 (or 30 days in jail if you prefer). The fact that some city leaders can set their own ticket prices on city streets have led to complaints about speed traps. For example, if you are caught speeding on a street in the city, your fine may be $200. If you go just a few hundred yards into the county, the fine is only $50.